A Moment in Time: Maris 61 & Aaron 714 — Dual-Signed OAL Ball with Maris Single-Panel Display & Elite Provenance

A remarkable “moment in time” artifact, this vintage Official American League baseball (Lee MacPhail, president) features the bold, contemporaneous signatures of two of the game’s most iconic sluggers: Roger Maris and Hank Aaron.

Signed in matching ballpoint pen in 1981 and accompanied by provenance from the original recipient—a former Major Leaguer—the consistent ink tone and strength confirm both legends were present together at the time of signing, a rare and desirable circumstance. Notably, the signing occurred just a few years after Aaron concluded his career with 755 home runs.

The Maris signature is especially desirable—large, flowing, and positioned alone on a single panel for outstanding display as a true “single.” The vintage Aaron autograph is bold and well-centered, executed in the earlier, more deliberate hand collectors prefer.

Condition is superb. The ball remains unused and well-preserved, with dark, clean signatures that present beautifully.

Provenance further elevates the offering. The ball originates from former Major Leaguer and longtime coach Rick Renick (Minnesota Twins, 1968–1972), who later served on multiple MLB coaching staffs, including the 1987 World Series champion Twins. A copy of Renick’s original handwritten note accompanies the ball, stating he obtained the signatures in 1981 while coaching with the Kansas City Royals.

The historical context is compelling. At the time of signing, Maris and Aaron represented the pinnacle of power hitting—Maris as the single-season home run record holder (61 in 1961), and Aaron as baseball’s all-time leader with 714, having surpassed Babe Ruth’s long-standing mark. Their combined presence on a single ball captures a rare intersection of these two milestones.

From a market perspective, high-grade Maris single-signed baseballs—particularly those with strong panel placement—are scarce and routinely exceed $8,000. We have not handled a comparable example in over two years, reflecting limited supply. His early passing in 1985 further constrains availability.

Comparable vintage Hank Aaron single-signed balls of this quality are also increasingly difficult to source and would command a significant premium independently. Demand for early, high-quality singles from inner-circle Hall of Famers continues to strengthen, as seen with Mantle and Mays.

Taken together, this piece offers a compelling combination of scarcity, historical significance, and investment potential. An exceptional convergence of condition and provenance, it stands as a lasting tribute to two legends—a true snapshot of baseball immortality.

Accompanied by a PSA/DNA letter of Authenticity.

Ships FedEx/UPS/USPS with Insurance.